Calvin Johnson sees immediate benefit of having Reggie Bush in the backfield

Michigan Live | Aug 11

New Detroit Lions running back Reggie Bush posted a modest stat line in his preseason debut with the team but his more immediate impact isn't something that could be extrapolated by looking over the box score.

On a 2nd-and-8 play in the first quarter of the Lions' 26-17 victory quarterback Matthew Stafford lined up in the shotgun with Bush directly to his left. Also to that side of the field in the slot was star wide receiver Calvin Johnson covered by Pro Bowl cornerback Antonio Cromartie.

On the snap Bush ran a short out route as Stafford stared him down. The quarterback gave a little shoulder fake and Cromartie bit crashing down on Bush and leaving Johnson to the deep safety.

You can probably see where this is heading.

Seeing single coverage Stafford connected with Johnson for a 28-yard gain down the sideline. After experiencing a steady dose of double- and triple-coverage looks against his top receiving threat last season Stafford was thrilled to see a cornerback let Johnson go free into the secondary.